Description
This inconspicuous native perennial grows up to 2 feet tall. The leaves are lance-shaped and sharply toothed (A). The greenish-yellow flowers are arranged in a row along 2-3 spreading terminal stalks above the leaves (A,B). The fruit turns pink by September (C). Identified by its unusual flower stalks and showy fall color.
Occurrence
Found along stream banks, flowering in July and August. In Fontenelle Forest, uncommon along the Missouri River at the end of Child’s Hollow Trail.
Comments
Native Americans used the seeds to make a cough syrup. European settlers had a variety of medicinal uses for this plant, including its use as a laxative.
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